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Category: Fostering Service

I have pets. Can I foster?

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Pets and fostering: Enhancing the fostering household experience 

When considering fostering, many prospective foster carers wonder how their pets might affect their eligibility. At Progress’ outstanding fostering service, we often receive questions about whether having pets is a barrier to fostering. Our supervising social worker provides reassuring insights into this common concern. 

One key question we encounter is: “I have a pet; does this prevent me from fostering?” The answer is generally no, having a pet does not disqualify you from becoming a foster carer. As long as your pets are not on the dangerous dogs’ list or pose a risk to a child’s safety, they should not hinder your fostering application. Ensuring that your pets are well-behaved and do not have any issues that could endanger a child is crucial. 

In fact, pets can bring many positive qualities to a fostering household. Pets often provide companionship, emotional support, and a sense of stability for children in foster care. They can help children learn about responsibility, empathy, and the joy of caring for another living being. The presence of a pet can also create a warm and welcoming environment, helping foster children feel more at home. 

While pets can enhance the fostering experience, it’s essential to ensure the safety and compatibility of the pets with the foster children. During the assessment process, our team will evaluate how your pets interact with children and whether they contribute positively to the household. This assessment helps us ensure that the young persons and the pets will coexist harmoniously and safely. 

The Role of Pets in Fostering 

Pets can play a significant role in the lives of foster children, offering comfort and a sense of normalcy. The bond between a child and a pet can be incredibly therapeutic, aiding in the child’s emotional and psychological development. Many foster families find that pets help create a more nurturing and supportive environment, which is essential for the well-being of the children in their care. 

In essence, having pets does not prevent you from fostering; in many cases, it can enhance the fostering experience. As long as your pets are safe and well-behaved, they can contribute positively to your household and the lives of foster children. At Progress, we believe in the power of a loving and supportive home, whether it includes pets or not. 

If you have a pet and are considering fostering, don’t let this be a barrier. Reach out to our team to discuss your specific situation, and together, we can determine the best path forward. Visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering or call: 01902 561066 

Fostering with pets can be a rewarding and enriching experience, benefiting both the children and the entire household. 

Summer at Progress: “My Progress Value” Encourages Creative Expression Among Young People

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

WOLVERHAMPTON, 22nd July 2024 – Progress is thrilled to announce the launch of the “My Progress Value” Holiday Challenge, a stimulating initiative aimed at celebrating the creativity and talent of young people across Progress’ homes and foster care network. From Tuesday 23rd July to Friday 30th August, participants will have the opportunity to express their interpretation of Progress’ values through various creative channels such as painting, writing, or any other form of artistic expression. 

The Challenge, designed to foster camaraderie and healthy competition, encourages collaboration between young people, support workers, and foster carers to showcase what Progress’ values mean to them. Whether it’s care, trust, respect, or progress, participants are invited to unleash their creativity and share their unique perspectives. 

“We are excited to launch the ‘My Progress Value’ Holiday Challenge, which aims to make every holiday period a memorable and collaborative experience for everyone involved,” said Angeline Freer, Head of Corporate and Commercial Services, Progress. “This competition not only celebrates the creativity of our young people but also promotes teamwork and highlights the values that define Progress.” 

The initiative aligns with Progress’ commitment to prioritise the well-being and development of young individuals. By engaging participants in a creative challenge during the holiday period, Progress aims to strengthen inter-service collaboration, demonstrate impact, and promote brand awareness. 

“We believe that initiatives like the ‘My Progress Value’ Holiday Challenge play a crucial role in showcasing the talent and creativity of our young people,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress. “Through this competition, we aim to foster a sense of pride and accomplishment among participants while also telling the unique stories and perspectives of the young people at the heart of Progress’ services.” 

The Challenge will culminate in the selection of winners, whose submissions will be showcased across and beyond Progress. Additionally, a media campaign will highlight each submission, further amplifying the voices and talents of the young people. 

“We are committed to creating an inclusive and engaging environment for our young people, and the ‘My Progress Value’ Holiday Challenge is a testament to that commitment,” said Bal Dhanoa, Chief Executive Officer, Progress. “We look forward to seeing the creativity and passion that this competition will inspire.”

Bal Dhanoa to receive MBE for Services to Children with Special Educational Needs and Their Families

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Bal Dhanoa, Founder and Chief Executive of Progress Care Solutions, is set to receive an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the King’s Birthday 2024 Honours List. She receives the MBE for her outstanding work with children and families. This prestigious honour recognises her outstanding contributions to social care over the past four decades.

“The recognition is for her services to children with special educational needs and their families. Bal has dedicated her life to making a difference, and enabling disabled people to lead fulfilling lives,” said Claire Rogers, Managing Director, Progress.

Bal’s career has been marked by pioneering advancements in care for disabled children and young people. She championed respite care, providing much-needed breaks for families while offering enriching experiences for children. Her work with Birmingham City Council’s Shared Care Programme gained national recognition, shaping government initiatives for disabled children.

Progress was founded in 2000 building on Bal’s passion for doing things differently, and has since grown into a leading and trusted provider of care for children and adults in the Midlands through a wide range of services, including residential homes, fostering services, and community-based support.

“I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive this MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours,” said Bal. “This recognition is not just for me, but for the entire Progress team, my family, and the strong women who have inspired me throughout my life.”

Bal’s commitment to social care extends beyond her professional work. She is a dedicated supporter of various charities, including initiatives to improve the lives of looked-after children.

Her charitable works include supporting various charities through out the years, and sponsoring young vulnerable girls to achieve Education so they are able to work and support their families and communities in India and Africa.

The MBE is a testament to Bal’s unwavering dedication to improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and her significant contributions to the social care sector.

The impact of Progress’ support groups for foster carers

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Are you considering becoming a foster carer? At Progress, we understand the journey can be both rewarding and challenging. Amanda, one of our dedicated foster carers, shares how the support groups at Progress have been invaluable to her and can be for you too. 

“I’ve really enjoyed coming along to the support groups,” Amanda begins. “I find it really insightful. Sometimes people explain the challenges they’re having, and even though you might not be living that challenge, hearing the tools to overcome them absolutely could benefit me. You never know when you might come across that yourself.” 

Amanda highlights the importance of community and support in fostering. “It’s really important to come along and support others. As a foster carer now, I’ve got hints and tips that I can share with people with less experience. Meeting people face to face is brilliant. If you need anything, it’s great to come into the offices and speak to someone. Everyone’s so welcoming and supportive. There’s always somebody to speak to.” 

The sense of camaraderie and shared experience is something Amanda deeply values. “It’s great to hear from other foster carers, to share ideas and challenges, and get other people’s perspectives on overcoming obstacles. Fundamentally, you’re not alone. Everyone is having their own challenges and successes. Sharing success is a massive reason to come to the support groups—to celebrate success with everybody else at Progress.” 

Amanda’s experience shows that with the right support, fostering can be a fulfilling and enriching experience. If you’re interested in becoming a foster carer and want to learn more about the benefits of our support groups, visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering or call 01902 561066. Join us and become part of a community that values support, learning, and shared success. 

Amanda’s Inspiring Journey into Fostering with Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

“It’s like when you have your first child yourself. You don’t know what you’re doing, but you’ve read it in a book. With fostering, you do know what you’re doing but again, you’ve read it in a book and putting it into practice is different.” 

Fostering is more than just a vocation; it’s a heartfelt commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and young people. Amanda, one of Progress’s dedicated foster carers, recently shared her journey into fostering, shedding light on the profound impact it has had on her life and the exceptional support she has received from Progress. 

Amanda’s interest in fostering was ignited by a Facebook advertisement specifically highlighting parent and child foster care. “Fostering is something I’ve wanted to do for as long as I can remember,” Amanda reminisces. Although she initially explored fostering several years ago, the demands of raising three young children led her to put her plans on hold. When she saw the recent advertisement, she felt it was the perfect time to revisit her fostering aspirations. 

Upon reaching out to Progress, Amanda was immediately impressed by their responsiveness and support. “They offered me loads of information, answered all of my questions, and supported me completely through the application process,” she says. Progress addressed her concerns about balancing work, home life, and the specific requirements for fostering, ensuring she felt confident in her decision. 

The journey through the application process was smoother than Amanda anticipated. “I’ve heard a lot of stories about how long it might take and some of the apprehensions I might have, but that didn’t play out. The journey was great,” Amanda shares. With the support of Progress’ Fostering Service team members, Amanda found the process manageable and even fulfilling. 

Training was a crucial part of Amanda’s preparation. “We had lots of training, lots of online learning, but it was never too much, and it was at our pace,” she recalls. Progress ensured that Amanda and her family were well-prepared, offering flexibility and continuous support throughout the training period. 

The support didn’t end there. Amanda speaks highly of the extensive network and community foster carers have at Progress. “I never felt that I was alone, which was really important,” she emphasises. This sense of community is reinforced by regular support group meetings where foster carers can share experiences, challenges, and successes. “It’s great to hear from other foster carers, get ideas on how to overcome obstacles, and share and celebrate successes,” Amanda explains. 

Amanda’s first young person came six weeks after approval, a learning experience that was both challenging and rewarding. “It’s like when you have your first child yourself. You don’t know what you’re doing, but you’ve read it in a book. With fostering, you do know what you’re doing but again, you’ve read it in a book and putting it into practice is different,” Amanda reflects. The continuous support from Progress and other foster carers helped her navigate this journey. 

Currently, Amanda is on another, a parent and child, and is finding it completely different but equally rewarding. “I’ve learned loads again on this journey and look forward to seeing where it brings me in the rest of my fostering journey,” she says enthusiastically. 

Amanda’s story is a testament to the support and community that foster carers receive at Progress. “Fundamentally, you’re not alone. Everyone is having their own challenges and successes, and it’s important to share those and support each other,” Amanda concludes. 

If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and young people, and you’re looking for a supportive community to join, consider starting your fostering journey with Progress. Visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering to learn more and apply today. 

Finding fulfilment in fostering: Pervina and Manoj

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Pervina and Manoj are a vibrant couple whose hearts are filled with the hope of providing a loving home to a child in need. Pervina first harboured the desire to foster, and one day, while scrolling through Facebook, she stumbled upon an advertisement that sparked the idea into reality. 

“It started off as mine,” Pervina shared, “and then Manoj tagged along with it.” 

Their journey into fostering was not without its questions and uncertainties. Pervina reflected, “I’ve always wanted to be a foster carer, but I didn’t quite know what you had to do to become one.” 

Manoj explained that after seeing the advertisement, they discussed it, feeling compelled to share their love and nurture a child who needed their support. 

The couple embarked on the process of becoming foster carers, which Pervina described as “lengthy but needed.” They navigated interviews, background checks, and panels with remarkable dedication and honesty. 

“We just answered everything, whatever they asked,” Manoj explained. “We were just ourselves.” 

Their commitment was met with swift results. Within a few weeks, they were approved and eagerly prepared their home for their first child. Pervina recalled the preparations, making their house safe and welcoming, ensuring it was ready for the child who would soon fill it with laughter and love. 

Their first child arrived promptly, and the couple embraced their new roles with open hearts. Despite the initial challenges, they felt supported by their social workers and Progress. 

“The support there was amazing,” Pervina recalled. “Honestly, fostering has changed our lives.” 

As they adjusted to their new family dynamics, Pervina and Manoj found joy in the chaos of their bustling household. 

“At first, it was just me and Manoj,” Pervina laughed. “Now, the house is messier… but it feels like a family.” 

Their fostering journey was not without its unique challenges. The young person they cared for had specific needs due to a brain injury. Still, Pervina and Manoj found creative ways to communicate and connect, ensuring the child felt at home. 

Looking ahead, Pervina and Manoj shared their aspirations. They hope to support their young person through school and beyond, empowering her to pursue her dreams despite the challenges she faced. 

“My expectations are to help encourage her to get the right apprenticeship, the right college,” Pervina shared, “to make that kind of dream possible and see what our options are.” 

Manoj added, “We’re always there for her… always.” 

In their cosy home, filled with love and laughter, Pervina and Manoj have found fulfilment in fostering. Their hearts expanded as they witnessed the transformation of their house into a home—a place where a child found solace, support, and the promise of a brighter future. 

As they shared their story, Pervina and Manoj’s words echoed with warmth and sincerity, a testament to the profound impact of fostering on their lives and the lives of the children they welcomed into their hearts. 

To learn more about fostering with Progress Fostering Service and how you can become a foster carer, please visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering or contact us directly at 01902 561066. 

Second Chances: A Journey Through Foster Care

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

This heartfelt poem was written by an 11-year-old under the care of Progress Fostering Service. This young poet beautifully captures their journey and the transformative power of foster care.

My life was no fun

My fears would make me run.

Until out of the blue

I met you.

 

I became a foster child not once but twice

When I hurt myself you gave me ice.

You helped me learn

Everything I get I earn.

 

I am a little bit sad

Sometimes I get a little bit mad.

Me and my brothers would hit and hit

Until one day we got split.

 

We see each other often

We all need a correction.

I’ve learnt a lot of things

And my foster carer says

Teamwork makes the dream work.

 

I do much better now in foster care

I smile most days

I hope you can do a favour

And help people to become more able

And children who have lost hope

And start believing

Bring them in and give them a second chance in life.

 

As we celebrate Foster Care Fortnight, we invite individuals and families in the Midlands who are interested in fostering to join us. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of children and young people in need of stability and care.

To learn more about fostering with Progress Fostering Service and how you can become a foster carer, please visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering or contact us directly at 01902 561066.

Celebrating Foster Care Fortnight 2024: Recognising Our Exceptional Foster Carers

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

As Foster Care Fortnight 2024 officially kicks off today, Progress Fostering Service, an outstanding division of Progress Children’s Services, takes immense pride in celebrating the dedication and impact of our remarkable foster carers. This significant event, running from May 13th to May 26th, is a testament to the profound role foster carers play in transforming the lives of vulnerable children and young people across and beyond the Midlands. 

At Progress Fostering Service, fostering isn’t just a service; it’s our passion and commitment to providing safe, nurturing homes where children can thrive. We are honoured to recognise the outstanding contributions of our foster carers who embody compassion, resilience, and unwavering support for the children in their care. 

Phil O’Brien, Registered Manager of the Fostering Service at Progress Children’s Services, emphasised the significance of Foster Care Fortnight: “This fortnight is a special occasion to shine a light on the incredible work of our foster carers. They truly are unsung heroes, offering stability and love to children who need it the most.” 

Tina Bhardwaj, Head of Children’s Services at Progress, added, “Foster Care Fortnight allows us to showcase the critical importance of fostering and the positive impact it has on vulnerable young people. Our foster carers exemplify the values we hold dearly at Progress: care, trust, respect and progress, and the belief that every child deserves a nurturing home.” 

Bal Dhanoa, CEO of Progress, echoed these sentiments, stating, “We are immensely proud of our Ofsted-rated outstanding fostering service. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to providing the highest standards of care and support to both our foster carers and the children entrusted to us.” 

As we celebrate Foster Care Fortnight, we invite individuals and families in the Midlands who are interested in fostering to join us. Together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of children and young people in need of stability and care.

To learn more about fostering with Progress Fostering Service and how you can become a foster carer, please visit progresscare.co.uk/fostering or contact us directly at 01902 561066.

Let us continue to champion the extraordinary efforts of our foster carers and advocate for the transformative power of fostering in our communities.

University of Wolverhampton Acknowledges Enduring Partnership with Progress

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

The University of Wolverhampton’s Social Work Department has proudly acknowledged its enduring partnership with Progress, marking four years of collaboration since 2020, and eight years specifically with the Progress Fostering Service. This partnership has become integral to the university’s social work education programme, providing students with invaluable real-world experience and mentorship.

At the heart of this collaboration is the mutual commitment to nurturing the next generation of social workers. Progress has consistently provided exemplary support, allowing students to develop their knowledge, skills, values, and overall capabilities. This partnership ensures that students receive comprehensive training to engage positively with both children and adults, a fundamental aspect of social work practice.

The social work process, from making referrals to carrying out assessments and interventions, mirrors the operations within social care providers like Progress. Through hands-on experience, students learn essential skills in working with children, young adults, vulnerable individuals and families, including risk management and support planning.

One of the key strengths of this partnership lies in its emphasis on practical learning. Progress facilitates opportunities for students to liaise with various agencies, honing their ability to collaborate and share information effectively. Additionally, students benefit from structured supervision and monitoring, ensuring they receive the support necessary for their growth and development.

Deborah Sharman, Practice Placement Development Worker at the University of Wolverhampton, expressed gratitude for Progress’ unwavering dedication to social work education.

“The contribution of Progress to the quality of social work education is invaluable. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone at Progress for their ongoing support and commitment to shaping the future of our profession,” Deborah said.

Phil Mcdonald, Head of Adult Services at Progress expressed Progress’ joy in supporting social work students, especially in the area of gaining experience.

“We are more than happy to support students in gaining invaluable frontline experience, mentoring them specifically around the importance of relationships and how they can navigate challenges that can present themselves in working in social care and specifically social work.  Our partnership with the University of Wolverhampton has been consistent and vital to supporting the next generation of social workers,” Phil said.

Progress’ dedication to nurturing talent and fostering excellence in social work education is commendable. As the University of Wolverhampton continues to prioritise practical, hands-on learning experiences for its students, collaborations like this one will remain essential in preparing the next generation of social workers to make a positive impact in their communities.

What makes Progress Fostering Service truly special

Posted on by Paul Adepoju

Hi, my name is Bethany and as a recruiting and assessing social worker at Progress Fostering Service, I had the pleasure of being interviewed recently, and reflecting on the conversation, I’m reminded of what makes our agency truly special.

When asked what sets Progress apart, I found myself emphasising the family-like atmosphere we’ve cultivated. Our small team allows us to know each foster carer personally, meeting regularly to discuss any concerns or updates. This closeness fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and understood.

As for what attracted me to social work and what continues to motivate me, it’s simple: I want to make a difference. I believe in the power of advocacy and the importance of being a consistent presence in a child’s life. Every child deserves to have their voice heard, and I strive to be that advocate for them.

The familial atmosphere, coupled with the unwavering support from management and colleagues, makes it a truly special place to work. Knowing each foster carer personally allows us to provide tailored support, ensuring that every child receives the best possible care.

As I reflect on the interview, I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for fostering and social work. It’s a privilege to be part of a service that prioritises the well-being of children and families above all else.

Find out more about our outstanding fostering service today. Visit: progresscare.co.uk/fostering